Ivan Kupala 2025: rites and signs from our ancestors

According to folk beliefs, Kupala rituals make life better. They were convinced that jumping over a fire could cleanse them of curses and sins.

Kupala holiday seems to have been one of the most magical holidays in Ukrainian culture. It was carefully prepared for, the rituals were known and respected. Our ancestors believed that without worshiping the elements of nature, a good harvest could not be expected. This is what the main festivities on Kupala were aimed at.

On this day, you need to go to a body of water to cleanse yourself of evil, gain strength, and improve your health.

But at night it is forbidden to enter the water, because mermaids can pull you to the bottom.

On this day, young couples jumped over a bonfire holding hands. If the couple did not let go of each other, they would soon get married.

On this day, young men usually look for a rare flower at night – the fern blossom. There was a belief that it appears only once a year and at night. Whoever finds the fern blossom will be able to cure any disease and understand the language of animals and birds.

The following signs are also popular on Kupala:

• Seeing a snake on Ivan Kupala is a sign of trouble.
• There is a lot of dew on Kupala morning – there will be a big harvest.
• Starry sky – to a good harvest.
• Rain on Ivan Kupala – the summer will be dry and hot.

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